Five potential replacements for Steven Gerrard at Liverpool

Following Steven Gerrard’s announcement that he is leaving Liverpool at the end of the season, we have come up with five players to replace him in the January transfer window, with the Reds 4/1 with Coral to win the Capital One Cup.

Lars Bender
With Christoph Kramer set to return from a loan spell at Borussia Monchengladbach, Bayer Leverkusen may be prepared to part with the 25-year-old, though any transfer won’t happen until the summer. Expected to command a £25m fee, he could step into Gerrard’s shoes, and carries a box-to-box threat.

Fabian Delph
Has shown maturity when capped for England this season, though still has a lot to learn. However, Brendan Rodgers will like the fact he is English, and can pair him up in midfield with fellow Three Lions star Jordan Henderson. He is definitely in the same vein as Gerrard at his best with his imposing box-to-box presence, and could be tempted to move away from Aston Villa, should an offer arrive from Liverpool.

Morgan Schneiderlin
Without a doubt Southampton’s lynchpin. A number of clubs are said to be circling the Frenchman and it is unlikely the Saints will sell to Liverpool after selling the Reds three of their top stars from last season already. He could definitely do a job however, and has shown that he can also chip in with goals. Any fee would be upwards of £25m.

Ilkay Gundogan
Borussia Dortmund have reportedly, recently offered Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool the chance to sign one of their star players. This man has everything. He missed the majority of last season with a knee injury, though he has no intention of signing another contract when his current deal expires at the end of next term, leaving the club little choice but to willing to offers. Likely to be available for around £25m, the Reds need look no further for a Gerrard replacement.

Axel Witsel
Zenit St Petersburg are apparently looking to sell a number of top names, including their 25-year-old Belgian midfielder. Whether he would be suited to Premier League remains to be seen, though there is no doubt that he is top talent. Able to break up play, and attack from deep, he is an all-action midfielder, though his attitude and work rate is questionable.